by Jennifer Foster

Created on: January 17, 2009

The first thing that can be saved is on something we all buy for our cars on a regular basis and that is gasoline. First, you do not need premium grade gas, that alone will save you big bucks at the filling station. Regular will do just fine. In the winter time, for every tank of gasoline since water condensation does get into the gas supplies of your local stations, a bottle of Isoheat or some other brand of gasoline treatment. It cleans out the water in the gas tank as well as scrubs the lines running from it to the carburetor. Next, change your oil regularly about every five thousand miles for light driving more often in the case of having a long commute to work. Next to save money on maintenance, build a good relationship with a trusted mechanic preferably with one that is knowledgeable about your vehicle model and make. This is important as these are the people who know when something might present a problem and show you or tell you how to prevent it from becoming a problem. Most likely a dealership for that make of vehicle is about the best place to take your car, especially if it is on the newer side with all the electronic systems included in it. Otherwise if your car is a few years older and has an expired warranty, the you could still take it to a dealer, or to an independent auto repair facility who's job it is and their ability to pay their bills and pay other mechanics, depends on good service work, as they know full well that word of mouth brings customers their way or turns them away. Check the fluid levels regularly and not just when you suspect that they may be low, as some cars may not signal that something is wrong until it becomes an expensive problem, like a new transmission or clutch for a manual shifting vehicle. Wax your car at least once a year, spring is as good a time as any since it is still warm but the humidity has not kicked in yet. Wash your car regularly but not in the winter as those locks can freeze easily and then you cannot get where you need to go. Also something else that may prove its worth in gold is a good auto repair book that is sold in every parts store and this little or thick book has a wealth of information. Basic care and maintenance by a professional mechanic will leave your wallet healthier and a little time on your part will make for a happy and long running car. I should know I own a 1994 Plymouth Voyager, it may be considered ugly,but hey, it sure beats paying three or four hundred dollar a month car payments.

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